Peter J. Karwacki
"The canopy needs sufficient variety to thwart single species vulnerabilities."
Rawlson King
"The urban tree canopy is Ward 13's most visible and cost-effective climate infrastructure. Heritage conservation district regulations in Rockcliffe Park incorporate canopy protection through the preservation of the community's park-like features, demonstrating that heritage policy and environmental policy can reinforce one another. More than 270 new trees have been planted across Rideau-Rockcliffe Ward since spring 2023 under the Urban Forest Management Plan. The 2026 city-wide budget includes 2,500 new trees under the Plant Your Place program and 500 proactive street tree replacements. I will continue to support and expand these programs.
Beyond planting, I will advocate for stronger enforcement of the Tree Protection By-law, support reduction of the diameter threshold for distinctive tree protection to capture more trees, promote boulevard gardening and naturalized planting that support pollinators, and continue supporting the Bird Friendly City certification approved in 2026 that I championed at Council. Every infrastructure renewal project must include a tree replacement and canopy restoration component where trees are removed during construction."